Heart disease is an umbrella term for a variety of diseases that affect the heart. Coronary artery disease is the most common type of heart disease in the United States and is caused when cholesterol causes a build up of plaque in the arteries, restricting blood flow to the heart. Coronary artery disease can lead to a heart attack, an arrhythmia (abnormal beating of the heart), or heart failure.
How Are Teens Impacted by Heart Disease?
While teenage heart attacks are extremely rare, the build up of fat and cholesterol in the walls of the arteries (otherwise known as atherosclerosis) begins during childhood. As a result, it’s important for teens to follow a healthy diet and exercise regularly to reduce their risk for developing heart disease in the future.
Learn About Common Heart Disease Risk Factors
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Smoking
Smoking is the most prominent heart disease risk factors for young individuals. The chemicals inhaled when smoking can damage blood vessels, increasing the risk for developing atherosclerosis.
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Alcohol
Excessive alcohol intake increases blood pressure, leading to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Additionally, alcohol can contribute to obesity, furthering the risk for diabetes and heart disease.
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Stress
Stress can increase inflammation in the body, which increases blood pressure and lowers healthy (HDL) cholesterol, contributing to heart disease. Additionally, stress may result in poor sleep, which impairs metabolism and increases the risk for heart disease.
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Physical Inactivity
A lack of exercise can result in the buildup of fatty materials in the arteries (atherosclerosis). Those arteries can transport fat deposits to the heart, resulting in a clogged heart and eventually a heart attack. However by being active, you can decrease your risk of heart diseases by 35%.
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Obesity
Obesity can cause a spike in unhealthy (LDL) cholesterol, increase blood pressure, and lead to diabetes, which all contribute to heart disease.
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High LDL Cholesterol
Excess LDL (unhealthy) cholesterol found in red meat, fried foods, and baked goods increases plaque build up in the arteries and leads to heart disease.
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High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure (often caused by high salt intake and lack of exercise) forces the heart to work harder, thickening the lower left chamber of the heart and raising the risk of heart disease.
